Best bike to buy in 2025 under 2 lakh

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Struggling to figure out which bike to buy in 2025 under 2 lakh? This guide is your go-to resource, covering everything from powerful cruisers to fuel-efficient commuters and sporty street machines. You’ll find top recommendations like the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, the nimble Yamaha MT 15 V2, and the feature-packed TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, all within that sweet spot budget. Choosing a new bike is a big deal, and hitting that sub-2 lakh INR mark means you’re looking for an awesome blend of style, performance, and value without breaking the bank. This segment is super competitive in India, with manufacturers constantly upping their game to offer the best bang for your buck, whether you’re a student, a daily commuter, or someone who loves a spirited weekend ride. So, let’s get you rolling on the perfect set of wheels for 2025! And hey, while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out some awesome motorcycle riding gloves or a cool new helmet to complete your riding gear!

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Why the “Under 2 Lakh” Segment is a Game Changer

for many riders in India, the sweet spot for buying a new bike isn’t at the super high-end or the absolute budget basement. It’s right there, smack in the middle: the under ₹2 lakh category. This price bracket has become a real battleground for manufacturers, and that’s fantastic news for us, the buyers! Why? Because it means you get a fantastic mix of advanced features, decent performance, and killer style, all without having to mortgage your future. We’re seeing bikes here that used to cost a lot more, now coming equipped with things like dual-channel ABS, liquid-cooled engines, and even connected tech. It’s like manufacturers heard us asking for more and delivered big time. This segment is booming, attracting everyone from college students looking for their first ride to seasoned commuters wanting a reliable, feature-rich machine.

Key Factors to Consider Before You Buy

Before you jump into checking out specific models, let’s talk about what really matters. Buying a bike isn’t just about the looks. it’s about finding a ride that truly fits your lifestyle. Trust me, you don’t want to regret your purchase a few months down the line because you overlooked something important.

Your Riding Style: Commuter, Sporty, or Cruiser?

This is probably the first question you should ask yourself. What are you going to primarily use the bike for?

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  • Daily Commuter: If you’re mostly weaving through city traffic, you’ll want something light, agile, and fuel-efficient. Bikes in this category often focus on comfortable ergonomics and easy maneuverability. Think reliable workhorses that won’t give you a headache in bumper-to-bumper situations.
  • Sporty Rider: Love quick acceleration, sharp handling, and a bike that looks like it belongs on a race track? Then you’ll be eyeing bikes with powerful engines, stiffer suspensions, and a more aggressive riding posture. These are great for spirited rides and might even offer features like quick-shifters.
  • Cruiser/Tourer: If long rides, highway cruising, and a relaxed posture are your jam, then a cruiser might be for you. These bikes prioritize comfort over long distances, often featuring a more upright riding position and engines that deliver strong low-end torque. You can even find some great motorcycle luggage options to make your tours more convenient.
  • Neo-Retro/Roadster: This is a growing segment that combines classic aesthetics with modern performance. They offer a stylish, often relaxed ride perfect for city cruising and casual weekend trips, blending the best of both worlds.

Engine Performance and Mileage

Let’s be real, in India, mileage is a huge factor. Nobody wants a bike that gulps fuel like there’s no tomorrow, especially with today’s petrol prices.

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  • Mileage: Many bikes in the under 2 lakh segment offer impressive fuel efficiency, with some 125cc models even hitting around 65-70 kmpl in real-world conditions. Look for bikes that balance power with good fuel economy, especially if your daily commute is long.
  • Engine Capacity & Power: You’ll find everything from efficient 125cc engines to punchy 250cc and even some 350cc options. Higher CCs generally mean more power and torque, which translates to better acceleration and highway performance. However, more power often comes with slightly lower mileage. For example, a Royal Enfield Hunter 350 offers solid low-end torque, making it feel powerful in city traffic, but it won’t be as fuel-efficient as a TVS Raider 125.

Comfort and Ergonomics

This is super personal, and something you absolutely must check during a test ride.

  • Seating Position: Are you hunched over like a sportbike racer, or sitting upright and relaxed? Different bikes offer different ergonomics, impacting comfort on short commutes versus long journeys.
  • Suspension: Some bikes might have a stiffer suspension setup for better handling, which is great for cornering but can be a bit harsh on broken roads. Others prioritize comfort with softer suspension. The Bajaj Pulsar NS200, for example, is known for its stiff suspension, which can be a point of concern for some riders.
  • Pillion Comfort: If you often ride with a passenger, make sure the pillion seat is comfortable enough. Some sporty bikes compromise on this for a sleeker look.

Features and Technology

Modern bikes, even in this budget, are packed with tech.

  • Braking: Look for bikes with at least a single-channel ABS Anti-lock Braking System, and ideally dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety, especially in slippery conditions. Many popular models like the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 come with dual-channel ABS.
  • Instrumentation: Digital instrument clusters are common, often showing gear position, mileage, time, and more. Some even offer Bluetooth connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation and call alerts directly on the display.
  • Lighting: LED headlights and tail lights are becoming standard, offering better visibility and a more premium look.
  • USB Charging: A small but incredibly useful feature for charging your phone on the go.

Maintenance and After-Sales Service

Don’t forget about the ownership experience after you buy the bike.

  • Service Network: A widespread service network means easier access to maintenance and repairs. Brands like Hero, Honda, TVS, and Bajaj generally have excellent service reach across India.
  • Spare Part Availability & Cost: Japanese brands like Honda and Yamaha are typically known for cheaper maintenance costs compared to some premium European brands. Regular servicing, including engine oil and air filter changes, can range from ₹500 to ₹1,500. However, costs can vary significantly depending on the service center and specific repairs needed.
  • Service Intervals: Most manufacturers recommend servicing every 3,000 km or every 3 months, whichever comes first. Sticking to these schedules is crucial for your bike’s longevity and smooth operation.

Top Picks: Best Bikes Under 2 Lakh in 2025

Alright, let’s get to the exciting part! Based on current trends, upcoming updates for 2025, and rider feedback, here are some of the top contenders you should definitely consider. These bikes offer a great blend of the factors we just talked about.

Royal Enfield Hunter 350

This bike has been a massive hit since its launch, and it’s easy to see why. The Hunter 350 is a fantastic urban roadster that brings Royal Enfield’s classic charm into a more accessible and agile package. Galaxy S25+ eSIM

  • Key Features: It’s powered by the reliable 349cc J-series engine, the same one found in the Classic 350, but tuned for a more responsive, peppy feel in the city. You get a good low-end and mid-range torque, meaning less gear shifting in traffic, which is a blessing. It also comes with dual-channel ABS, a semi-digital instrument cluster, and a USB charging port.
  • Pros:
    • Accessible Royal Enfield: It’s the most affordable 350cc Royal Enfield, making the brand accessible to more riders.
    • Agile Handling: Lighter and more compact than its siblings, it’s a joy to flick around in city traffic.
    • Thumpy Exhaust Note: That classic Royal Enfield exhaust sound is still very much there.
    • Good for Long Rides: With a relaxed riding posture and sturdy build, it’s also decent for touring. You might want to grab some Royal Enfield accessories to customize your ride.
  • Cons:
    • Stiff Suspension: Some riders find the suspension a bit stiff, which can be felt on rough patches.
    • Lower Mileage: Being a 350cc, its mileage around 30-35 kmpl is lower than 150-250cc competitors.
    • Heavy Kerb Weight: At 181 kg, it’s heavier than other bikes in its price range.
  • Estimated On-Road Price: Roughly ₹1.73 lakh to ₹2.00 lakh, depending on the variant and city.

Yamaha MT 15 V2 / R15 V4 Sports Performance

If you’re all about sharp looks, thrilling performance, and Yamaha’s renowned reliability, the MT 15 V2 and its fully-faired sibling, the R15 V4 or R15M, are fantastic choices.

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  • Key Features: Both share a 155cc liquid-cooled engine with Variable Valve Actuation VVA, delivering a strong punch across the rev range. They come with a slipper and assist clutch, upside-down forks, and a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity. The R15 V4 even offers a quick-shifter.
    • Punchy Engine: Despite being 155cc, the VVA tech makes it feel incredibly peppy and fun to ride, especially in the mid to high revs.
    • Sharp Handling: Super light and agile, these bikes are excellent for carving corners and navigating city traffic with ease.
    • Modern Features: Packed with tech like USD forks, Bluetooth, and great braking.
    • Stylish Design: They look like bigger, more expensive bikes.
    • Stiff Ride: The sporty suspension can feel a bit firm on bad roads.
    • Pillion Comfort: The pillion seat is quite small and not very comfortable for long rides, especially on the R15.
    • On-road price is close to the 2 lakh mark: The R15 V4’s higher variants can even cross the 2 lakh mark.
  • Estimated On-Road Price: Yamaha MT 15 V2: ₹1.97 lakh – ₹2.03 lakh. Yamaha R15 V4: ₹1.85 lakh – ₹2.25 lakh.

TVS Apache RTR 160 4V / RTR 200 4V Sporty Commuters

TVS has really nailed the sporty commuter segment with the Apache RTR series. These bikes are known for their race-derived performance and feature-rich packages, offering a fantastic balance for daily use and weekend fun.

  • Key Features: The RTR 160 4V features a 159.7cc, 4-valve engine, while the RTR 200 4V gets a 197.75cc oil-cooled engine. Both offer excellent power delivery. The 200 4V even comes with multiple riding modes Urban, Rain, Sport and a Bluetooth-enabled SmartXonnect console. You get great brakes, including dual-channel ABS on higher variants, and race-tuned slipper clutches.
    • Performance: Both bikes offer strong acceleration and impressive top-end performance for their respective classes. The RTR 200 4V even has a great power-to-weight ratio.
    • Feature-Packed: Riding modes, connected tech, adjustable levers – TVS loads these bikes with features usually found in higher segments.
    • Comfortable Ergonomics: While sporty, they offer a comfortable riding posture suitable for daily commutes.
    • TVS Reliability: A well-established service network and reliable engines.
    • Vibrations: Some riders report minor vibrations at higher RPMs.
    • Design might not appeal to everyone: The aggressive styling is a hit or miss for some.
  • Estimated On-Road Price: TVS Apache RTR 160 4V: ₹1.18 lakh – ₹1.40 lakh. TVS Apache RTR 200 4V: around ₹1.45 lakh.

Bajaj Pulsar NS200 / N250 Performance and Street Appeal

Bajaj’s Pulsar lineup has been a staple in the Indian market for years, and the NS200 and N250 continue that legacy with their focus on performance and aggressive street styling.

  • Key Features: The NS200 uses a 199.5cc liquid-cooled engine known for its high-revving nature, making it a blast for performance enthusiasts. The N250, on the other hand, features a 249cc oil-cooled engine, offering strong low and mid-range torque, making it more flexible for both city and highway rides. Both come with LED lighting, digital instrument clusters, and often dual-channel ABS. The N250 even sports USD forks on some variants.
    • Raw Performance NS200: If you love pushing your bike to its limits, the NS200 offers a thrilling top-end performance.
    • Balanced Performance N250: The N250 provides a more tractable power delivery, great for varied riding conditions, and comfortable seating.
    • Aggressive Styling: Both bikes have a sharp, muscular design that stands out.
    • Bajaj’s Wide Network: Easy availability of service and spare parts.
    • Stiff Suspension NS200: Can be a bit firm, especially on uneven roads.
    • Fuel Efficiency: While decent, these performance-oriented bikes might not be as fuel-efficient as pure commuters.
    • Vibrations: Some users report vibrations at certain RPMs.
  • Estimated On-Road Price: Bajaj Pulsar NS200: ₹1.66 lakh – ₹1.93 lakh. Bajaj Pulsar N250: around ₹1.51 lakh – ₹1.80 lakh.

TVS Raider 125 / Honda SP 125 Mileage Kings

For those who prioritize fuel efficiency and reliable, fuss-free commuting, the TVS Raider 125 and Honda SP 125 are absolute champions. These are perfect for daily use, offering practicality without skimping on modern features. Rakuten Hand eSIM

  • TVS Raider 125:
    • Key Features: A segment-first 124.8cc, 3-valve engine that’s both peppy and incredibly fuel-efficient. It boasts a fully digital instrument cluster, LED lighting, and even an optional SmartXonnect Bluetooth system. You get good power for a 125cc, making it fun to ride.
    • Pros: Outstanding Mileage around 65-70 kmpl, modern features, stylish design, comfortable ride, and a peppy engine for city traffic.
    • Cons: Some might find the styling a bit too aggressive for a commuter. single-channel ABS only.
    • Estimated On-Road Price: ₹87,375 – ₹1.03 lakh.
  • Honda SP 125:
    • Key Features: Honda’s reliable 123.94cc PGM-FI engine, known for its refinement and excellent fuel economy. It comes with a fully digital meter, LED DC headlamp, and a silent start system.
    • Pros: Excellent Mileage around 60-63 kmpl, buttery-smooth engine, Honda’s legendary reliability, and low maintenance costs. It’s a no-nonsense commuter that just works.
    • Cons: Design is a bit more conservative. fewer advanced features compared to the Raider.
    • Estimated On-Road Price: ₹93,247 – ₹1.03 lakh.

TVS Ronin Neo-Retro Style

The TVS Ronin is a unique offering that blends cruiser comfort, scrambler styling, and neo-retro appeal. It’s a great choice if you want something that stands out and offers a relaxed, enjoyable ride.

  • Key Features: Powered by a new 225.9cc engine, it delivers good low-end torque for city rides and highway cruising. It comes with a fully digital, Bluetooth-enabled instrument cluster with turn-by-turn navigation, adjustable levers, and dual-channel ABS. Its wide tires and distinctive styling give it a robust road presence.
    • Unique Styling: Definitely an eye-catcher with its neo-retro design.
    • Comfortable Ride: The relaxed ergonomics and suspension setup make it great for both city and long rides.
    • Feature-Rich: All the modern tech you’d expect, including connected features.
    • Versatile: Handles city commutes and casual tours with ease.
    • Engine Performance: While adequate, it’s not as performance-focused as some other 200-250cc bikes.
    • Weight: It’s a bit on the heavier side, which might affect maneuverability for some.
  • Estimated On-Road Price: ₹1.35 lakh – ₹1.72 lakh.

Emerging Contenders: Upcoming Bikes to Watch in 2025

The bike market is always , and 2025 is set to bring some exciting new models and updates that could shake things up in the under 2 lakh segment. Keep an eye out for these potential game-changers:

  • Upcoming 125cc/150cc offerings: Brands like Honda, Hero, TVS, and Yamaha are consistently refreshing their smaller capacity bikes with new tech and styling. We might see new versions of the Honda CB 125 Hornet, TVS Fiero 125, or even a new Yamaha XSR 155 that combine retro looks with modern performance.
  • Electric Bikes: The electric two-wheeler market is rapidly expanding. While many popular electric scooters are already below 2 lakh, we might see more affordable electric motorcycles or even new electric concepts like the OLA Roadster or Suzuki e Access making a bigger splash, offering incredible running costs and zero emissions. You can also explore electric bike accessories to enhance your electric ride.
  • KTM/Husqvarna smaller displacement models: Brands known for their performance-oriented bikes are always looking to capture the entry-level segment. We might see updated KTM 125 Duke or Husqvarna Svartpilen 125 models offering premium features and styling at a competitive price, appealing to young riders and enthusiasts.
  • New entrants or refreshed models in the 200-250cc segment: Keep an eye on brands like Hero, Bajaj, and TVS who are constantly innovating in this space, possibly bringing more powerful or feature-rich options under the 2 lakh mark.

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Making Your Final Decision: Tips for Test Riding and Purchase

So, you’ve narrowed down your choices. Now what? This is where the real-world experience comes in.

  1. Test Ride, Test Ride, Test Ride: I cannot stress this enough. Specifications on paper are one thing, but how a bike feels when you ride it is everything. Take your top few choices for a proper spin. Don’t just go around the block. try to replicate your typical riding conditions if possible. Check the seating comfort, the feel of the clutch and brakes, how it handles in traffic, and if it feels stable at higher speeds.
  2. Compare On-Road Prices: Remember that the “ex-showroom” price is just the starting point. The “on-road” price includes RTO charges, insurance, and other fees, which can add a significant amount. Get quotes for the exact on-road price in your city for all your shortlisted bikes. Sometimes a bike that looks slightly over budget might just sneak in due to different pricing in your region.
  3. Check Service & Spares: Ask about the service intervals and estimated service costs. Speak to other owners if you can, either online or in person, to get a real-world perspective on maintenance and spare part availability. A great bike with poor after-sales support can be a nightmare.
  4. Dealer Experience: A good relationship with your dealership can make a big difference. Pay attention to how the sales staff treat you, how transparent they are with pricing, and their knowledge about the bikes.

Choosing a bike is exciting! With so many great options under ₹2 lakh in 2025, you’re in a fantastic position to find a ride that truly enhances your daily life, whether it’s for commuting, adventuring, or just enjoying the open road. Take your time, do your research, and most importantly, enjoy the process! Pixel 4 XL eSIM

Frequently Asked Questions

Which are the best bikes under 2 lakh in 2025 for mileage?

For excellent mileage under 2 lakh, you should definitely check out the TVS Raider 125 and the Honda SP 125. The TVS Raider 125 often delivers around 65-70 kmpl, while the Honda SP 125 offers a smooth ride with roughly 60-63 kmpl. These bikes are perfect if fuel efficiency is your top priority for daily commuting.

What are the best sports bikes under 2 lakh in 2025?

If you’re looking for sporty performance and aggressive styling under 2 lakh, the Yamaha MT 15 V2 and its faired sibling, the R15 V4, the Bajaj Pulsar NS200, and the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V are top contenders. These bikes offer punchy engines, sharp handling, and features like liquid-cooling and dual-channel ABS, providing a thrilling ride experience.

Are Royal Enfield bikes available under 2 lakh in 2025?

Yes, absolutely! The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 is a popular choice that falls well within the 2 lakh budget, with on-road prices starting from around ₹1.73 lakh. The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 is also available, with variants typically starting around ₹1.76 lakh ex-showroom and crossing into the 2 lakh on-road price. These offer the classic Royal Enfield experience in more accessible packages.

What features can I expect from bikes under 2 lakh in 2025?

Bikes under 2 lakh in 2025 are pretty well-equipped! You can expect features like digital instrument clusters often with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation, LED lighting, single-channel or even dual-channel ABS for safety, and sometimes a USB charging port. Higher-end models in this segment might also offer upside-down forks, slipper clutches, and multiple riding modes.

What is the average maintenance cost for bikes under 2 lakh in India?

The average maintenance cost for bikes under 2 lakh in India can vary, but generally, regular servicing which includes engine oil and air filter changes, and a general check-up usually falls in the range of ₹500 to ₹1,500. Japanese brands like Honda and Yamaha are often considered to have lower maintenance costs. Keep in mind that major repairs or component replacements like tires or brake pads would be extra. Best eSIM for Uzbekistan

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